Enterobiasis among Yemeni children: a cross-sectional study

Abdulelah H Al-Adhroey1, Yahya A Al-Ansi1, Mohammed A Al-Kholani1

  • 1Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Thamar University, PO Box 87246, Dhamar, Yemen.

Insights

Enterobiasis, a pinworm infection, affects nearly 30% of children in Yemen's Dhamar governorate. Poor hygiene, nail-biting, and lack of parental knowledge are key risk factors, necessitating health education and mass treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Parasitology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Enterobiasis (pinworm infection) is a global public health concern, particularly prevalent in developing regions.
  • Yemen faces significant challenges in managing infectious diseases due to socioeconomic factors.
  • Children are especially vulnerable to enterobiasis due to their behaviors and hygiene practices.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of enterobiasis among children in Yemen's Dhamar governorate.
  • To identify significant risk factors associated with enterobiasis in this population.
  • To inform public health strategies for controlling pinworm infections in Yemeni children.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 402 children aged 1-12 years at Thamar University Al-Wahdah Teaching Hospital.
  • Enterobius vermicularis infection was diagnosed using the adhesive tape technique.
  • Prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated to assess the association between risk factors and enterobiasis.

Main Results:

  • The overall prevalence of enterobiasis was 29.4% (118/402 children).
  • Significant risk factors included child care responsibility (PR=1.90), irregular handwashing (PR=2.01), nail-biting (PR=1.61), putting objects in the mouth (PR=1.58), and frequent anal itching (PR=1.46).
  • Parental lack of knowledge on preventive measures (PR=1.62) and recent anthelmintic use (PR=1.68) were also associated with higher infection rates.

Conclusions:

  • Enterobiasis is highly prevalent among children in Dhamar, Yemen, with a notable peak in the 1-6 year age group.
  • Poor hygiene practices, specific behavioral habits, and limited parental awareness are critical drivers of infection.
  • Public health interventions, including targeted health education and mass deworming programs, are urgently recommended for this vulnerable population.

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